Treasure Hunter

Diving for Gold on North America’s Death Coast

Robert MacKinnonDallas Murphy

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Overview

For over four decades, world-renowned diver and treasure hunter Captain Robert MacKinnon has reclaimed sunken caches from the dangerous shallow waters along Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast. Known as the Death Coast for its treacherous reefs and violent currents, the rocky bottom is layered with shipwrecks and untold riches.

In short, a treasure hunter’s paradise.

The shipwrecks in these rough waters can be piled three deep, and some date back to the 1700s. Braving powerful currents, deadly storms, and jagged reefs, Captain MacKinnon and his diving teams strap on their gear and zip up their wet suits to plunge into frigid waters in their search for gold and silver coins, bullion, and historical artifacts.

In Treasure Hunter, Robert MacKinnon recounts the risks and challenges—both nautical and legal—in exploring shipwrecks dating back to the War of 1812 and before the Revolutionary War. As he salvages the secrets of the sea, MacKinnon vividly captures the excitement of discovery and conveys his passion for preservation in the still-developing field of underwater archeology.

A compelling chronicle of modern-day adventure, Treasure Hunter is a fascinating voyage into an amazing undersea world.

Praise

"A beautifully written book that really captures the excitement, the fun, and the frustrations of diving for treasure." — John Chatterton, professional diver

“Treasure Hunter is a no-holds-barred plunge into the cold, rough waters of Nova Scotia in search of shipwrecks. Bob McKinnon takes the reader on a fascinating voyage of history, discovery, and battles with bureaucrats as only a seasoned explorer could. From armchair adventurer to experienced professional, all will enjoy this read.”– Bob Cembrola, curator of Maritime History, U.S. Naval War College